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Fasts and Prayers: Still No Immigration Reform

December 16, 2013

Plain English Version

The president and first lady meet with fasters.

Advocates of immigration reform have been fasting outdoors in Washington, D.C. They ended their fast after 22 days. The program was similar to activities conducted by civil rights activists in trying to end discrimination.

Many Democratic House members supported the fast. Activists said they had “succeeded in raising awareness about families being ripped apart by deportation. “ They admitted the protest did not change things in the House.

The Senate has passed a broad immigration bill. House Speaker John Boehner said the House would not consider the Senate bill.

Other fasts are on-going in Washington, D.C. and elsewhere. One Republican advisor said fasts are not the way to persuade conservative Republicans.

Some evangelical Christian churches are pushing for immigration reform. They are running ads on radio. Their prayers call on Speaker Boehner to do “the right thing.”

An evangelical pastor said “Congress should pass a true conservative solution to fix immigration.” He went on, “God will help them find a solution that reflects biblical values.”

The evangelicals favor a law that includes a path to citizenship for immigrants who are in the country without authorization. Church leaders are calling on evangelical Christians who are in favor of immigration reform to make their voices heard.

What are the chances for legislation this year? Not very good. Many conservative House members say there is not much interest in this issue in their home districts.

Next year is an election year for all the House members and many of the Senators.